Arts Lab

Museum of Failure

A big part of the Lab’s ethos is overcoming fear of failure, bravely taking on risk and the unknown and recognising there are no mistakes. In a fortnight when the Making Monday’s group has shown they totally get this, it was a coincidence to hear on the radio mention of Sweden’s Museum of Failure, opened in 2017.

‘Museum of Failure is a collection of interesting innovation failures. The majority of all innovation projects fail and the museum showcases these failures to provide visitors a fascinating learning exeperience. The collection consists of over seventy failed products and services from around the world. Every item provides unique insight into the risky business of innovation. We are planning to host evening activities related to failure. How about a failed gourmet tasting menu at a fancy restaurant? A tasting of failed brews from regional microbreweries? Or a world-renowned classical pianist giving a concert of failed music? Fuck-up-night talks? We welcome any further suggestions. The crazier the better.’

‘The acceptance of failure is necessary in order for innovation and progress to truly succeed.’ Samuel West – Museum of Failure curator